| Author | Message | ||
     Nsbuell |
I'm going to be running an FZR400 in a vintage class this year and I'm wondering if I absolutely need rain tires or will treaded DOT race tires suffice? Something tells me they won't get up to temperature in the wet. Any advice? | ||
| Trojan |
The diffeence between proper race rain tyres and DOT treaded tyres is chalk and cheese. If you can afford it then buy the best race wets you can afford. Only use them when the track is soaking wet or they will last no time at all. We use Michelin Pilot Power wets and they are superb (almost as much grip as in the dry!!) They are the same as used by the MotoGP guys in the wet so are as good as they get. | ||
| Nsbuell |
So in any condition other than a completely soaked track the dry tires will do? Would it be dangerous to use treaded race tires in the wet or would I just be slower? Would a street tire be better in the rain than a treaded race tire because of the quick heat-up time?...I'm trying to avoid buying more tires as you can see. | ||
| Rocketsprink |
WET TRACK, rains are a must or you're wasting your time and risking a crash. Spend the money. They will last you more than one season. I have a set that are 3 years old and still look like new. DOT race tires on a WET TRACK, you're putting yourself and others in harms way. DOT race tires on a DAMP TRACK are good. The only time I've seen/heard of guys using a DOT street tire is damp and cold conditions. Being that it's cold out, race tires never really heat up. But it is slippery as hell. I did my license test in a pouring rain on DOT race tires ( didn't have time to put on the rains) and it was scary as hell!! Get an extra set of rims and have a set of rains mounted. That's the set up I use. Beats having to have the tires swapped out which can get expensive and time consuming. Good luck and keep the shiny side up! | ||
| Nsbuell |
Thanks guys, I appreciate the input. | ||
| Slaughter |
Ask for "Intermediates" - heavier groove patterns than DOT's but the same compounds and you CAN run them on a dry track if you have to. Rains on a dry track will tear apart after only 2-3 laps. Rains must PUMP water. If the track is just wet but no standing water, it's likely you want intermediates... if there's a chance of rain. HOWEVER... - CALL your tire seller before the race. I'm talking RACE TIRE SELLER - the guy who will be mounting them for you at the track - NOT some internet discount tire seller. Seriously, they are EXPERTS on what they recommend and go with what they tell you. They can also spot your tire wear and make suspension and pressure recommendations just by "reading" the type of wear. BRING YOUR NOTEBOOK!!! (the most important tool in racing!) - record tires, compounds, pressures, temperatures, conditions - and how much time you have on your tires. | ||
| Slaughter |
Awww crap - I just re-read that you're running a Fizzer. You are more limited on tire selections. Contact the tire vendor. Everybody I know with stock Fizzer wheels is running Bridgestones. Post up on the race boards. The Fizzer is such a popular racebike even with the funny sized wheels, I'd bet you only have to wait a day for some really good suggestions. (Message edited by slaughter on January 08, 2007) |
